How much of college costs should realistically come from savings versus loans versus current income?

A widely cited planning benchmark is the "rule of thirds": aim to cover roughly one-third from past savings (like a 529), one-third from current income and financial aid while the student is enrolled, and one-third from future income via reasonable loans. It's a guideline, not a mandate, but it keeps any single source from being unrealistic, you rarely need to prepay 100% in a 529. The key constraint on the loan third: keep total student borrowing near the expected first-year salary so payments stay manageable. Prioritize free money (grants, scholarships) and federal loans before private debt. Model how your savings, expected aid, and a sustainable loan level combine using the College Planner at wealthserene.com/tools/college-planner.